Codes & Conventions of Short Film

1. A2 Level Media Studies Codes &
Conventions of Short Film
Mima Micic

2. STORYLINE
Most short films average length is 5-15 minutes, meaning the story cannot get too complex and
should focus on one major topic that depicts one (possibly two) main characters and an original
plot.
The storyline should try to avoid cliches and instead incorporate new, possibly unexplored,
exciting ideas. The inspiration for the ideas could come from the creator’s personal experience
and other anecdotes coming from real life events, such as newspaper articles or TV reports. The
plotline could also be completely fictional, as long as the filmmaker manages to effectively tell
the story and not create any plot holes, which could be difficult considering the relatively short
duration.
Another adequate technique for creating an unique impactful storyline would be looking at
familiar issues from a new, different perspective or style that will intrigue the viewers and get
them thinking. This type of plotline will be relatable to some viewers and make them more likely
to watch it in the first place. The audience that can’t relate will become curious and more aware
of the existing issue.

3. CHARACTERS
The storyline should focus mainly on one character who has a clear goal that needs to be reached or a
problem that needs to be overcomed. The relevant aspects of the character need to be properly developed
in the short timespan, and no other characteristics should be introduced to the story in order to avoid
complicating the storyline and creating plot holes.
Most important questions about the main character should be:
● Who is the main character?
● What is their problem?
● How will the audience view them and recognise the problem?
● Are the stakes high enough?
Good characters should always be accompanied by adequate acting. Poor acting skills can lead to the
audience misinterpreting the reality the short film is trying to convey. The actors should be able to efficiently
depict the personality of the characters, bu they should also be of the fitting gender, age, ethnicity, sexuality
etc.

4. TODOROV’S NARRATIVE
THEORY
This theory of the equilibrium in narratives can be simplified by breaking it into 5 stages:
● EQUILIBRIUM- a state of peace and balance exists amongst the characters and the plot
● DISRUPTION- a twist or problem appears, disturbing the equilibrium
● REALIZATION- a recognition of the problem has arised amongst the characters and into the plot
● RESTORED ORDER- a period recognised by attempts to bring the equilibrium back
● EQUILIBRIUM- a new balance is established

5. Budgets for short films are usually low due to their target audience being a small group of individuals who will be
interested in the topic and also views short films, not just mass-production blockbuster films. Short films are
often exhibited at festivals, which perfectly target their niche audience.
The engagement with the audience is higher compared to feature films due to portrayal of intense topics in short
periods of time. Due to its shortness, each shot and line spoken matters and should not be wasted on irrelevant
details that don't contribute to the development of the story.
Short films with a comedic tone usually gives the actors freedom to improvise. The story should be driven with
emotional action rather than physical action.
Appropriate equipment should be obtained and pre-production should be executed well in order for the filming to
go smoothly and as quick as possible.
MORE THINGS TO CONSIDER
‘Whiplash’, a short film that screened at the 2013
Sundance Short Film Festival in Utah, was later
turned into a feature film due to its success.
Storyboard
examples